PAHO formalizes CFIT participation following its statement of intent during COP28
The Steering Committee of the Circular and Fair ICT (CFIT) Pact is pleased to formally welcome the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) as a procuring participant. Following its statement of intent expressed at COP28, several PAHO team members have already actively participated in CFIT meetings and workshops throughout 2024.
The decision to join CFIT aligns seamlessly with PAHO's overarching goal to promote circularity, fairness, and reduced environmental impact in its procurement processes. PAHO procures thousands of laptops, computers, tablets, and phones (ICT equipment) as part of technical cooperation projects in its countries related to digital health systems, as well as for its operations at headquarters and in its 27 country offices.
The Pact was signed following a kick-off meeting with the board of the PAHO Green Initiative on September 11th. During this meeting, Marieke Weerdesteijn introduced the Pact. Mark Levene and David Allogia of the Canadian Treasury Board Secretariat presented their approach to greening government ICT. The board greatly appreciated this practical and inspiring presentation by Canada, a PAHO member state and a CFIT Pact participant.
Kristan Beck, PAHO’s Director of Administration, explained: “PAHO is committed to supporting its Member States in strengthening and digitizing health systems. This support involves acquiring thousands of laptops, computers, tablets, and phones, not only for these health systems but also for PAHO’s operations across its 27 country offices and headquarters." PAHO will now enhance its ability to implement sustainable procurement practices, contributing to a reduction in environmental impact and setting a benchmark for responsible ICT acquisition across the UN system.
“By joining the Pact, PAHO aims to collaborate with partners to adopt best practices that mitigate environmental and social impacts, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable procurement and reducing the carbon footprint of ICT throughout its lifecycle,” added Daniel Rodriguez, PAHO’s Director of Procurement & Supply Management.